No ordinary archipelago, this is the world’s biggest: with 17,500-plus islands sprawling between Asia and Australia. Many are uninhabited; some are legendary (think Java, Sumatra, Papua); and almost all are worth exploring.
"These are places made for adventure: where dramatic volcanoes tower over lush rainforest fringed by white sandy beaches, with coral reefs, jungles and wildlife galore."
Adventure looms large in this vast and steamy archipelago, where the best of Southeast Asia's heady scents, vivid colours, dramatic vistas and diverse cultures brew a potent mixture, leaving your senses spinning. Bali's religion is almost tangible and no matter where you venture you will see mini temples filled with gorgeous scents and vibrant flowers, as the peaceful and hospitable people pay their respects.
Bali's cultural heart lies in Ubud and is the place for antique markets, Balinese shows, architectural rice paddy fields and even a volcano! Java too has its own qualities, the colossal metropolis and cultural sites including the string of volcanoes (some docile, some not!) and the amazing Buddhist temple Borobudur. One visit is just never enough.